4 Steps to Finding a Faith-Based Retirement Community By Casey Kelly-Barton l Ways to Find a Retirement Community l Aging l Retirement and Faith l Faith Filled Retirement Community

Ask Questions

If you live in a major city and belong to a Christian or Jewish tradition, odds are you’ll find at least one community that fits your needs. If that’s not the case for you, remember that many communities offer interdenominational services or even a variety of different religious services to suit the needs of their residents. For example, many Protestant assisted living communities also offer Catholic services, and vice versa, and most faith-based homes are open to residents of all faiths. When you visit the homes you’re considering, be sure to ask:

● Which spiritual services are offered? For example, are there daily Masses, weekly Shabbat meals, Bible study groups, etc.?

● Is there a worship center, chapel, or meditation room on site?

● Does the community have a chaplain who is well-versed in different faiths? Can you meet with him or her?

● Does the community offer transportation to area houses of worship? If so, which ones?

● If you require kosher, halal, or vegetarian meals, can those be provided?

● Are there special observances for particular holidays, such as post-sunset dinners during Ramadan?

● If you’re religious tradition prohibits you from being cared for by attendants of the opposite gender, can the staff meet your needs?

The answers to these questions will give you a sense of how well your own religious needs would be supported if you move in. An in-person tour will let you know if you’ll feel comfortable and included in that environment. If you’re not satisfied with what you find, you can keep looking or try to create a customized experience.